Personal defense device

ABSTRACT

A personal defense device includes an electrical stun circuit and electrodes with a structure adapted for use as an impact weapon as well, and further includes a radially disposed flashlight or signal light therewith. The electrical circuitry for the stun apparatus is formed of flexible circuit material with dual circuit paths between each component, for reliability and resistance to damage due to impact forces incurred when the device is used as an impact weapon. A second, normally closed interrupter switch is provided for the stun circuit, with the user of the present device being required to hold the interrupter switch in order to keep the stun circuitry from operating when the master switch is turned on. The end opposite the handle includes a series of impact ribs with cutting blades removably installable thereon, to produce shallow (non-life threatening) cuts in an assailant during an attack.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to manual weapons such asbatons, night sticks, and the like, and in addition relates toelectrically powered stun devices. The present defense device combinesaspects of both of the above devices, as well as other features andfunctions, in a single device for use by police, military, and/or otherswho have need of such a non-lethal weapon or device for crowd controland other purposes.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0004] The use of blunt instruments (night sticks, etc.) by police andother personnel for crowd control and for subduing other individuals,has been known for generations. Very little has been done over the yearsto improve such hand held impact weapons, other than changing the massof different portions to impart greater force upon impact. Morerecently, electronic devices have been developed which transform arelatively low battery voltage into A considerably higher voltage, foruse as an electrical stunning device. Such devices are quite effectivein subduing a threatening individual, or even a small crowd, as theaudible and visual impression generated by the electrical arc across thecontacts, is quite intimidating.

[0005] However, such electrical stun devices are generally constructedwith relatively fragile electrical components which cannot withstand agreat deal of impact force. Such stun devices of the prior art are notintended for any other use, and are used solely as an electricaldischarge device, with the contacts being placed against a potentialattacker or other person who must be subdued. While this may result in athrusting of the device toward the other person, the physical forcesinvolved are nowhere near those to which a blunt impact weapon (nightstick or baton, etc.) would be subjected. The relative fragility of suchelectrical stun weapons has thus resulted in law enforcement officersbeing required to carry a separate baton or night stick in addition tothe electrical stun device, as well as all their other equipment (handgun, cuffs, etc.). The mass and bulk of all this equipment can bedistracting to say the least, and can certainly encumber an officer whenhe must move rapidly. Moreover, the requirement for two similarly shapedelongated weapons or devices (baton and electrical stun prod) can easilyresult in a moment's hesitation or confusion when the officer reachesfor one or the other, in a situation where time is critical.

[0006] Accordingly, a need will be seen for a personal defense devicewhich combines attributes of the baton with those of an electricalstunning device, as well as other attributes and features, in a singledevice. The present defense device is constructed of a relativelymassive and thick walled material, in order to provide the desired massfor use as an impact weapon. Yet, the device has a hollow interior, inorder to house the electrical storage cells and electrical componentryfor the electrical stun system of the device. Moreover, the presentdevice includes a series of blunt edges disposed along the barrelthereof, which provide greater effectiveness as an impact weapon. Theseblunt edges may be equipped with relatively shallow cutting edges toproduce a bleeding cut or wound, if so desired. A flashlight or the likemay also be built into the device for greater versatility, with thelight utilizing the same electrical energy source as the stun circuitry.The present defense device also makes use of redundant flex circuitryfor reliability and impact damage resistance, as well as providing anovel, normally on interrupter switch for the stun circuit to facilitateuse of the device by an officer.

[0007] A discussion of the related art of which the present inventor isaware, and its differences and distinctions from the present invention,is provided below.

[0008] U. S. Pat. No. 427,549 issued on May 13, 1890 to John M. Burton,titled “Electric Prod Pole,” describes two embodiments of such a device.The first embodiment of FIG. 1 is a very low voltage device, as itrelies upon an “element B” (taken to be an electrical storage cell), butdoes not include any means of inverting the current for stepping up thevoltage. The second embodiment uses a mechanical generating device,rather than a battery. In any event, the device of the Burton '549 U.S.patent is quite long and thin, and is not adapted for use as an impactweapon in addition to its electrical prod function.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 1,158,473 issued on Nov. 2, 1915 to William B.Floyd, titled “Electric Animal Prod,” describes a device similar to thatof the Burton '549 U.S. patent described immediately above. The Floydprod is also a relatively long and thin device, with electrical storagebatteries carried in a larger diameter handle portion. No appreciablemass is provided in the distal portion of the device, as it is desiredto make the distal portion as light as possible in such devices tofacilitate maneuverability. This teaches away from the presentinvention, with its relatively massive distal portion to providerelatively large inertial forces for use as an impact weapon, as well asproviding the desired strength and durability for the device.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 2,176,994 issued on Oct. 24, 1939 to Lorentz A.Hansen et al., titled “Electric Stock Prod,” describes a deviceutilizing a conventional capacitor and vibrator points for producing analternating current from the direct current of the electrical storagebatteries within the device. A coil having primary and secondarywindings is used to step up the voltage to the desired level. Thisdevice is capable of producing a continuous array of high voltagedischarges, unlike the devices discussed further above. While thecircuitry of the Hansen et al. device is old in the art, such circuitryor its equivalents may be used in the present invention, and thedisclosure of such is incorporated herein by reference. However, Hansenet al. do not disclose a relatively massive barrel portion for use as animpact weapon, nor other means (blades, etc.) for such impact function.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 2,208,852 issued on Jul. 23, 1940 to Leon P.Mongan, titled “Electric Prodder,” describes a combination deviceincluding a voltage step-up circuit and light circuit, each powered bythe same battery power source. The electrical voltage step-up circuitryis essentially the same as that used by Hansen et al. and disclosed inthe '994 U.S. patent discussed immediately above. This basic circuitrymay be used with the present invention, as noted above. However, it isdesired to use more durable circuitry incorporating flex circuits,redundant wiring, and solid state componentry in the present invention,rather than the older mechanical componentry of the Mongan and similarearlier devices. In any case, Mongan does not provide any means forusing his device as an impact weapon, and further teaches away from thepresent stun device by providing an open circuit until one of thecontacts is pushed in. This is not desirable in an electrical stunprotective device, where the visual and audible effects of theelectrical arcing are desired to provide a deterrent effect.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 2,561,122 issued on Jul. 17, 1951 to John Juergens,titled “Livestock Prod,” describes a device having a spring mounteddistal end with a selectively operable light source concentric with theannular electrical contact probes. The light and electric contacts areoperated by a single, double throw switch. Thus, either the light or theelectrical contacts may be actuated, but not both simultaneously.Moreover, the resiliently mounted distal end teaches away from thepresent rigid, massive structure which may also be used as an impactweapon.

[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 3,362,711 issued on Jan. 9, 1968 to LaVerne M.Larsen et al., titled “Night Stick With Electric Shock Means,” describesa stick having external high voltage wiring, as well as the conventionalhigh voltage contacts extending from the distal end of the stick. Theobject of the Larsen et al. stick is to prevent unauthorized personsfrom grasping the stick and pulling it from the grip of the officer orother person controlling the stick. Larsen et al. disclose atransistorized circuit for controlling electrical power in their nightstick, but no means of providing alternating current to produce acontinuing series of discharges, is disclosed. The Larsen et al. nightstick requires that the actuating switch be closed each time a singleelectrical pulse is desired, with the electrical energy dissipating asthe switch remains closed and voltage stabilizes through the transformercoil.

[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 3,625,222 issued on Dec. 7, 1971 to Kunio Shimizu,titled “Baton-Type Arrest Device,” describes a device having a pair ofelectrically conductive needles selectively extendible from one endthereof. No electrical switch is provided, except by means of currentflow between the two contacts. Shimizu states that by penetrating theskin, the electrical current administered may be much less to gain thedesired affect than that achieved with skin contact electrodes.Accordingly, no voltage step up is provided by Shimizu. Also, whileShimizu provides an axially placed light in one end of his night stick,the light cannot be directed radially from the side of the device.

[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 3,819,108 issued on Jun. 25, 1974 to Richard J.Jordan, titled “Crowd Control Stick,” describes a device bearing someresemblance to the night stick of the Larsen et al. '711 U.S. patent,discussed further above. The Jordan stick also includes external highvoltage wiring to preclude an unauthorized person from grabbing thestick and taking it from the operator. However, the Jordan stickutilizes a capacitor discharge system for producing the higher voltagesdesired. In any event, the Jordan stick still differs from the presentdevice in that the power supply for the Jordan device must be providedas a separate unit and connected to the stick with a cable. Also, Jordandoes not provide any form of lighting means nor impact enhancing meanswith his stick.

[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 4,092,695 issued on May 30, 1978 to Gary A.Henderson et al., titled “Electrical Shocking Device,” describes arelatively small and light weight device including transistorizedcircuitry for producing a high voltage, low amperage current capable ofproducing an electric shock to a person contacting the electrodes. TheHenderson et al. device is only about ten inches long and less than aninch in diameter, and weighs less than five ounces (col. 3, lines41-43). Such size and weight is not suitable for use as an impactweapon, night stick, or billy club, whereas the present device providessufficient mass and size to be useful as an impact weapon as well. Also,no lighting means is disclosed by Henderson et al., whereas the presentdevice includes a radially disposed, selectively operable lighttherewith.

[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 4,424,932 issued on Jan. 10, 1984 to Gerald F.Allen, titled “Electric Shock Prod,” describes a device incorporatingconventional transistorized circuitry, which disclosure is incorporatedherein by reference as yet another means of providing the high voltageoutput required for the operation of the present invention. The Allenprod differs from others in that the extension is a relatively thin andflexible blade. This construction clearly teaches away from the aim ofthe present invention, i.e., to serve as a night stick or impact weaponas well as being useful as an electrical stun device. Allen does notdisclose any form of lighting for his prod device.

[0018] U.S. Patent No. 4,479,171 issued on Oct. 23, 1984 to Gregg B.Mains, titled “Side Arm Baton And Flashlight,” describes a relativelylong, cylindrical device having battery storage space therein, a lightat one end thereof, and a radially extended handle with a light switchat the end thereof. No means of producing or dispensing a high voltageelectrical current or shock is provided by Mains for his light and batoncombination.

[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 4,486,807 issued on Dec. 4, 1984 to Serge J. Yanez,titled “Non-Lethal Self Defense Device,” describes various embodimentsof an electrical stun apparatus, having different configurations. Yanezincludes a light with his electrical discharge apparatus, but the lightis not intended to provide any real degree of illumination for theperson using the device. Rather, the Yanez light pulses or flashes withthe voltage output, producing a series of flashes to temporarily blindan assailant. Accordingly, no separate switch is provided to operate thelight for the Yanez device; both the light and the electrical voltageoutput (and an audible alarm, when installed) are all controlled by asingle switch, unlike the present invention.

[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 4,667,431 issued on May 26, 1987 to Lyle J.Mendicino, titled “Shark Prod,” describes an electrical device whichemits a relatively low voltage (around 500 volts) and high amperage (1-5amps), in comparison with electrical stun devices and cattle prods. Thisis because the diver is also subject to the electrical current,particularly in the salty ocean environment of sharks. Accordingly,Mendicino teaches away from the use of a high voltage, low amperagecurrent as used by the present invention. Moreover, the only lightprovided by Mendicino is an annunciator light to indicate operation ofthe device, and actual actuation of the electrical circuitry isaccomplished by contact with the probes, rather than by means of anoperator controlled switch.

[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,534 issued on Jan. 12, 1988 to Gary S. Ward,titled “Electric Shock Safety Device,” describes a stun type devicehaving a telescoping probe end, with the probe comprising a series ofmutually telescoping elements. The Ward device is more intended for useby joggers and bicyclists against threatening dogs and the like. Therelatively thin and extended telescoped probe cannot provide therequired strength for use as an impact weapon (night stick or the like),as provided by the present multipurpose device. Moreover, Ward does notprovide any form of lighting with his device.

[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,277 issued on Jun. 27, 1989 to Eugene F.LaCroix, titled “Multi-Purpose Baton,” describes a device somewhatresembling the flashlight and baton apparatus of the Mains '171 U.S.patent, with its laterally disposed hand grip. However, LaCroix alsoprovides a series of longitudinally disposed electrical conductors alongthe length of the device, similarly to the configuration of the deviceof the Jordan '108 U.S. patent discussed further above. LaCroix alsoprovides a light, but it is only intended to temporarily blind apotential assailant, rather than to provide any useful illumination forthe user of the device. The lateral extension of the LaCroix device doesnot facilitate its use as an impact weapon, as provided by the generallycylindrical configuration of the present device.

[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,247 issued on Nov. 14, 1995 to Richard N. deAnda et al., titled “Electronic Stunning Apparatus,” describes a devicehaving concealed electrical contacts which are not exposed until thedevice is pressed against another body. The de Anda et al. device isrelatively small, being about the size of a flashlight. It is thus notsuitable for use as an impact weapon, as provided by the presentinvention. The de Anda et al. device more closely resembles therelatively small device disclosed in the '695 U.S. patent to Hendersonet al., than it does the present personal defense device. Moreover, deAnda et al. do not disclose any form of lighting with their device, andthe concealed electrical contacts cannot provide a visible display ofelectrical discharge to dissuade a potential attacker.

[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 5,654,867 issued on Aug. 5, 1997 to John H. Murray,titled “Immobilization Weapon,” describes a hand held device with a pairof elongated flexible electrodes and a set of electrodes which can beballistically fired at another person in order to deliver an electricalshock remotely. The Murray device has a square section, pistol gripconfiguration with a relatively short upper portion for firing theballistically delivered electrodes. The two elongated electrodesextending from the device, extend from the top of the device above thepistol grip portion. The physical configuration of the Murray devicedoes not enable it to be used as an impact weapon, e.g., night stick,etc., as can the present personal defense device.

[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 5,962,806 issued on Oct. 5, 1999 to Peter G.Coakley et al., titled “Non-Lethal Projectile For Delivering An ElectricShock To A Living Target,” describes a series of embodiments forballistically launching an independent device capable of delivering anelectric shock to a living target. The shocking device of the Coakley etal. apparatus is not connected to the firing weapon in any way, as bywires, etc. as used in some projectile firing devices of the prior art.Thus, the electrical device cannot be controlled once it leaves theweapon. Also, while Coakley et al. disclose baton and flashlightembodiments of their projectile and delivery device, they do not providea device having all of the features of the present invention, e.g., ribsfor greater impact, low blades which may be attached to the ribs forimparting minor cuts, or radially disposed lighting means.

[0026] U.S. Pat. No. 5,986,872 issued on Nov. 16, 1999 to Eugene M.Chaput, titled “Multi-Component Electric Stunning Umbrella,” describes adevice having electrical storage cell and electronic component means inthe handle, with electrical wiring extending up the relatively narrowshaft thereof to a distal tip having a pair of stunning electrodestherein. A more or less conventional umbrella is extendible from thetip, permitting the device to be used as an umbrella as desired. A hardplastic cover may be installed over the folded umbrella, as desired.Chaput states that this hard plastic cover permits the device to be usedas a baton or impact weapon, but this would require that the plasticsleeve be installed over the folded umbrella whenever the potential needof an impact weapon was foreseen. Moreover, while Chaput providesadditional electrodes along the sides of the impact sleeve, he does notprovide any additional ribs or blades to increase the effectiveness ofthe device as an impact weapon, as provided by the present personaldefense device.

[0027] U.S. Pat. No. 6,022,120 issued on Feb. 8, 2000 to Hung-Yi Chang,titled “Lighting Device For A Stun Gun,” describes a separate flashlighttype device with the light beam oriented axially relative to theremainder of the device, rather than radially, as in the lighting meansof the present device. The Chang assembly cannot be used as an impactweapon, as it is relatively short and compact, with the operatingswitches located at the approximate midpoints along the opposite sidesthereof.

[0028] U.S. Pat. No. 6,091,597 issued on Jul. 18, 2000 to Ming-Chen Lin,titled “Structure Of An Electric Shock Device,” describes a devicehaving a series of selectively extendible telescoping sections. Thesections each have electrodes extending along their opposite sides, butno tip electrodes are provided. Also, while the Lin device includes aflashlight, the light is oriented parallel to the length of the device,rather than being radially disposed to the length of the device.Moreover, the hollow telescoping tubes of the Lin device do not appearto provide sufficient strength for use as an impact weapon (baton,etc.), and Lin makes no disclosure or claim of such function for hisdevice.

[0029] U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,916 issued on Jul. 10, 2001 to Thomas V.McNulty, titled “Stun Gun,” describes a device having a short, pistolgrip configuration with a trapezoidal head extending therefrom. The twoelectrical contacts are on adjacent faces of the trapezoid, angularlyseparated from one another. McNulty states that this causes thetrapezoidal shape to compress the muscle tissue of the subject beforeboth contacts are in contact with the skin, thus providing a greaterelectric shock effect and muscle contraction. The McNulty device moreclosely resembles the device of the '867 U.S. patent to Murray,discussed further above, than it does the present invention. McNultyalso provides a ballistically fired device having electrical stunningcontacts with his device. However, The relatively short length of theMcNulty stun device is not suitable for use as an impact weapon orbaton, and no lighting means is provided by McNulty for his device.

[0030] U.S. Pat. No. D-255,139 issued on May 27, 1980 to James A. Smith,titled “Electric Baton For Law Enforcement Personnel,” illustrates adesign comprising a relatively short, generally cylindrical device. Anelectrical switch is apparently provided at about the midpoint of thedevice, which further precludes its use as an impact weapon or baton. Noadditional impact ribs, blades, or lighting means are apparent in theSmith design.

[0031] U.S. Pat. No. D-273,216 issued on Mar. 27, 1984 to Harold S.Sinrod, titled “Multi-Purpose Defense Baton,” illustrates variousembodiments of a design comprising a relatively narrow, elongatedcylindrical shape with a hand guard between a handle portion and longerdistal portion. No electrical function of any sort is apparent in theSinrod design.

[0032] U.S. Pat. No. D-289,313 issued on Apr. 14, 1987 to More Shy,titled “Hand-Held Electric Prod,” illustrates a design having agenerally cylindrical shape with a hand guard adjacent one end. Nodisclosure is made of any function as an impact weapon, nor is anylighting means shown for the design. The Shy design more closelyresembles the design of the '216 U.S. Design patent to Sinrod, discussedabove, than it does the present invention.

[0033] U.S. Pat. No. D-329,510 issued on Sept. 15, 1992 to Hsiung Lin,tiled “Hand-Held Electric Prod,” illustrates a design comprising arelatively short, generally cylindrical device having a hand guardbetween a handle portion and distal portion. The Lin device thus moreclosely resembles the device of the de Anda et al. '247 U.S. patent,discussed further above, than it does the present personal defensedevice. While no statement of such is made in the Lin Design Patent, itappears that the electrodes are disposed along the opposite sides of thedistal end portion of the device, rather than from the end, as in thepresent device.

[0034] U.S. Pat. No. D-351,640 issued on Oct. 18, 1994 to Richard N. deAnda et al., titled “Electronic Stunning Weapon,” illustrates a designapparently identical to the device of the '247 U.S. Utility patentissued to the same inventors and filed on ever date, discussed furtherabove. The same points of difference raised in the discussion of the deAnda et al. '247 U.S. Utility patent, are seen to apply here as well.

[0035] Finally, British Patent Publication No. 2,196,728 published onMay 5, 1988 to Chun Chang Kuo, titled “Flash Light,” describes anapparatus which is actually a combination of several devices. The Kuoapparatus includes an axial flashlight, as well as selectivelyextendible electrical probes for the device to serve as a stun weapon ifso desired. Moreover, the Kuo apparatus includes an audible warningsystem, e.g., a buzzer or siren, and the flashlight may be used as avisual warning device as well. However, Kuo makes no statement or claimthat his apparatus is suitable for use as an impact weapon (baton,etc.). The light is disposed in the distal end of the device, and it isquestionable whether the light, as well as other componentry, wouldstand up to the forces resulting from use of the device as an impactweapon.

[0036] None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singularlyor in combination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed.Thus a personal defense device solving the aforementioned problems isdesired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0037] A hand held personal defense device includes a number ofdifferent features to provide a versatile defense weapon for lawenforcement and other personnel who have need of such a device. Thepresent device comprises an elongate, generally cylindrical tubeincluding electrical contacts extending from one end thereof andconventional electrical circuitry therein for stepping up electricalcell voltage to a high level for use as a stunning weapon and deterrent.

[0038] The structure of the device is formed of a high strengthsynthetic composite material for optimum durability, and includes aseries of ribs along the exterior surface for greater effect as animpact weapon. One or more blades may be attached to the ribs in orderto produce shallow cuts upon the body of a person when struck by thepresent device. The present device also includes a small but powerfullight source emitting its light radially from the body of the device,for effectiveness when the device is raised for use as an impact weapon.The electrical circuitry of the present device is adapted to providegreat durability and resistance to damage under high impact forces, aswill likely occur from time to time with the use of the device.

[0039] Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to providea personal defense device providing multiple functions of an electricalstun weapon, impact weapon or baton, and light source in a singledevice.

[0040] It is another object of the invention to provide such a defensedevice comprising a durable, high strength tubular shell having a seriesof ribs extending therefrom to provide greater damage when the device isused as an impact weapon, and which may include a series of bladesremovably secured to the ribs to produce shallow cuts due to impact fromthe device.

[0041] It is a further object of the invention to provide redundantflexible electrical circuitry within the device, for greater durabilityand resistance to damage due to forces developed when the device is usedas an impact weapon.

[0042] Still another object of the invention is to provide aninterrupter switch for the high voltage electrical stunning circuit,which interrupter switch is normally closed to require the user of thedevice to hold the switch in order to disable the electrical stunningcircuitry.

[0043] It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements andarrangements thereof for the purposes described which is inexpensive,dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

[0044] These and other objects of the present invention will becomereadily apparent upon further review of the following specification anddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a personal defense deviceaccording to the present invention.

[0046]FIG. 2 is a fragmented longitudinal section view of the rearwardor handle portion of the present personal defense device, showing theflex circuitry and various internal details thereof.

[0047]FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the forward portion ofthe present personal defense device, showing the impact ribs andremovable attachment of blades and blade guards thereto.

[0048]FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the dual pathelectrical circuitry provided for reliability in the present personaldefense device.

[0049] Similar reference characters denote corresponding featuresconsistently throughout the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0050] The present invention is a personal defense device, combiningfeatures of an electrical stun weapon or device with an impact weapon(baton, night stick, or the like) and a small, high intensity light.These features have not been combined into a single device, prior to thedevelopment of the present invention. In addition, the present defensedevice incorporates extremely durable, redundant electrical circuitry,in order to provide the desired reliability and durability for theelectrical circuitry when employed with an impact weapon.

[0051]FIG. 1 of the drawings provides a perspective view of the presentpersonal defense device 10, illustrating its general configuration. Thepersonal defense device 10 generally comprises an elongated, generallycylindrical, hollow tube 12, having a handle end 14 and a distalelectrical discharge end 16 opposite the handle end 14. The tube 12 maybe formed of a variety of materials, but as the present device 10 isused as an impact weapon as well as an electrically discharging stunningweapon, the material used is preferably a hard, rigid, somewhat densematerial, capable of withstanding impact forces when used as a policebaton, club, or the like. Due to the high electrical voltages developedby the electrical circuitry of the present invention, the materialpreferably has a very high dielectric property, at least greater thanthat of air, in order to preclude electrical arcing across or throughthe material. A composite material formed by a thermosetting resin in asynthetic fiber matrix, e.g., Ultra*comp® UC-200, made by Tri-StarPlastics Corp. of Shrewsbury, Mass. has been found to meet theserequirements. However, other suitable materials may be substituted asdesired.

[0052] The handle end 14 may be equipped with a removable cap 18 foraccessing electrical storage cells (batteries) and/or other internalcomponentry. A wrist strap 20 or the like may be secured to the device10 by the handle end cap 18, if so desired. The opposite electricaldischarge or output end 16 may be equipped with a similar cap 22, withthe electrical stunning electrodes 24 and 26 extending therefrom.Preferably, the caps 18 and 22 are provided with seals or other suitablemeans to provide a waterproof fit.

[0053] Two concentric sleeves 28 and 30 may be installed about the tube12 in the approximate medial area thereof, or more precisely, somewhatcloser to the handle portion 14 of the assembly. These sleeves 28 and 30secure the switches controlling the high voltage circuitry for thepresent invention, as shown pictorially in FIG. 2 and schematically inFIG. 4 of the drawings. A master switch 32 is provided to turn the highvoltage stun circuitry on and off, with a second, momentary contactswitch 34 being provided to enable and disable the electrical stuncircuitry as desired.

[0054] The master switch 32 is preferably a rocker type switch, withopposite ends of the switch either actuating or deactivating the highvoltage circuit alternately as they are pushed. The secondary switch 34is preferably normally on or closed, and is wired in series with themaster switch 32 and/or high voltage circuit. The operator of thepresent personal defense device 10 normally actuates the electricalcircuitry by turning the master switch 32 on when it appears that theneed for electrical stun capability may be needed. The operator thenholds the secondary switch 34 to keep it open, thus keeping the highvoltage circuitry in a deactivated condition. However, when the operatorreleases the secondary switch 34, the high voltage system is activated.The operator thus need not continually hold a switch in order to keepthe high voltage circuitry activated. These switches 32 and 34 aresecured within passages through the tube 12 wall by the sleeves 28 and30, and are preferably encased in rubber or the like to provide awaterproof assembly and preclude electrical arcing from the switches.

[0055]FIG. 2 provides a pictorial view of the voltage step-up and othercircuitry within the tube 12 of the device 10, while FIG. 4 provides aschematic view of the circuitry. The electrical circuitry used with thepresent invention is flexible (or “flex”) circuitry, insofar aspossible. Flex circuitry, rather than using conventional insulatedwires, utilizes thin, flexible plastic sheet material with conductivematerial imprinted or otherwise formed thereon, in a similar manner tothat used in the formation of conventional printed circuit boards andthe like. However, rather than using rigid board-like material, thecircuitry of the present invention utilizes a thin, flexible plasticcentral board or sheet 36 (shown with its lower left corner flexedupwardly, in FIG. 2) which contains most of the various electroniccomponents 38 which operate the high voltage system of the presentinvention. A series of flex circuit lines, described specificallyfurther below and in FIG. 4, extend from the “mother board” 36 to thevarious electronic components of the present invention. Such flexcircuitry is conventional, and is used in the aviation and automotiveindustries to provide good reliability and durability in harshenvironments where electronics are exposed to vibration and otherforces.

[0056] The voltage step-up and lighting systems of the present inventionare powered by a pair of nine volt electrical cells (batteries) 40,wired in parallel, as shown in FIG. 4. The cells or batteries 40 arepreferably wrapped in an insulating sleeve 42 of Neoprene or othermaterial, in order to keep them warmer and provide more efficientoperation in colder temperatures.

[0057] The various electrical connectors extending between componentsare preferably formed of thin, flat flex circuitry, as noted furtherabove. In addition, all of the wiring or circuitry is redundant, witheach connector element carrying two electrical paths, designated aspaths a and b, in FIG. 4 of the drawings. For example, the lines 44between the batteries 40 and the main control circuit are indicated ascircuits 44 a and 44 b in FIG. 4. The lines 46 extending from thecontrol circuit board or sheet 36 to the master and secondary switches32 and 34 are designated as separate, parallel circuits 46 a and 46 b inFIG. 4. (It will be noted that the pictorial view of FIG. 2 illustratesthese lines 46 as returning separately to the control sheet 36, whilethey are wired in series between the batteries 40 and the control boardor sheet 36. A number of different circuit routings are possible, butthe principle remains the same.) The electrical conductors 48 and 50extending between the control board 36 and the respective electrodes 24and 26 (with a capacitor 52 illustrated in the circuit therewith in FIG.4), are indicated as conductors 48 a, 48 b, 50 a, and 50 b in FIG. 4.Finally, the lighting circuit 54 is indicated by conductor paths 54 aand 54 b in FIG. 4. The provision of parallel, dual circuit paths forthe electrical circuitry of the present invention provides a significantimprovement in reliability and durability over conventional single wirecircuit runs used ink other electrical stun devices of the prior art,and enables the present invention to be used as an impact weapon withoutdamage to the electrical and electronic elements thereof.

[0058] A number of different electrical or electronic circuits may beused to provide the voltage step-up required to provide the desire highvoltage to the two electrodes 24 and 26 from the two nine volt batteries40. Older technology may make use of vibrator points to develop thealternating (actually pulsating dc) current required to drive thetransformers to step up the voltage to the level desired. The presentinvention may make use of such mechanical point systems, but preferablyutilizes conventional solid state oscillator circuitry to produce thevariable voltage required to drive a step-up transformer to arrive atthe proper voltage. Any such systems are conventional, and may beincorporated herein.

[0059] In addition to the above circuitry for providing the requireshigh voltage to the electrodes 24 and 26, the present personal defensedevice 10 may also include a light source (e.g., small flashlight orsignal light, etc.) if so desired. FIGS. 2 and 4 also illustrate such alighting system incorporated with the present invention. A small, brightlight source 56 is located in a housing within the tube 12, and iscontrolled by a switch 58. The switch 58 may be a single pole type, asshown schematically in FIG. 4 of the drawings. However, all of theswitches 32, 34, and 58 may also be conventional double pole types forgreater redundancy and reliability, if so desired. A fiberoptic(acrylic) rod or bundle 60 extends from the light source 56 to an output62 which projects radially from the tube 12. Different lenses 64 (e.g.,infrared, ultraviolet, etc.) may be installed between the light source56 and fiberoptic line 60, as desired.

[0060] The present personal defense device 10 is a multi-purpose tool,and is useful as an impact weapon (baton, club, etc.) as well as anelectrical stunning device and light, as noted further above. FIGS. 1and 3 (particularly FIG. 3) illustrate the external configuration of thepresent device 10 for use as an impact weapon. At least one (andpreferably a series of) hard, rigid, elongate impact rib(s)s 66project(s) radially from the exterior of the tube 12 and extend(s)therealong, from a point near the electrode or electrical discharge endcap 22, back toward the handle portion 14 of the tube 12, stopping shortof the two switch securing sleeves 28 and 30. The ribs 66 are preferablyformed of the same material, e.g., Ultra*comp UC-200, as the remainderof the exterior of the device 10, but other materials may be substitutedas desired, so long as they are electrically non-conductive and providethe other desired properties of hardness, strength, durability, etc. Theribs 66 may be disposed along only one side of the impact end 16 of thetube 12, in order to allow the operator to use the opposite smooth,non-ribbed side or surface if less force is required.

[0061]FIG. 3 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention, in whichthe ribs 66 are provided with a series of mounting holes 68 for theremovable attachment of a shallow, radially disposed cutting blade 70 toeach rib 66. The blades 70 are equipped with a like series of attachmentholes 72, through which a series of bolts 74 or the like may beinstalled. The bolts may be retained by threading the rib holes 68,inserts within the rib holes 68, conventional nuts 76 on the oppositesides of the blades, etc.

[0062] The blades 70 are preferably formed of corrosion resistant steel,for toughness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Other materials maybe used as desired. Each blade 70 has a relatively shallow, widelyangled, but sharp, cutting edge therealong. The object of the blades 70is not to inflict serious arterial bleeding through a deep cut, butrather to break the skin of an assailant to produce some bleeding as asecondary effect while primarily inflicting a certain amount of pain, inorder to distract and slow an assailant. Blade guards 78 formed of heatshrink tape or other suitable material, may be applied to the blades 70in order to protect persons handling the present device 10. Suchrelatively thin plastic tape 78 may be left in place at all times,including during use of the present device 10, as the tape is easily cutthrough by the blades 70 upon impact.

[0063] In conclusion, the present personal defense device provides asignificant advance in personal defense technology for law enforcementofficers and others who have need to confront aggressive persons withphysical force. The present device combines features of an electricalstun device, an impact device (baton, etc.), an edged weapon by means ofits optional shallow blades, and a light source for illumination orsignalling, in a single device. This greatly simplifies the carriage ofequipment by law enforcement personnel, eliminating the need for aseparate electrical stunning device along with a flashlight and baton.

[0064] Having a single, versatile tool or piece of equipment to handleall of the above functions, greatly facilitates the reactions of theofficer in a hazardous situation, as he or she need not make a decisionas to which tool or equipment to access, and then reach for thatspecific item of equipment. The present defense device provides all theequipment a law enforcement officer is likely to require, except afirearm, in a single device.

[0065] The use of dual, redundant, flex electrical circuitry in thepresent device provides a significant improvement in reliability forsuch devices, and enables the present defense device to be utilized asan impact or edged weapon where it is subject to considerable shockforces, without risk of damage to internal components. Preferably,mechanical connectors are used to secure electrical components to oneanother, in order to avoid potential problems with solder joints and thelike becoming brittle and separating due to flexing. The presentpersonal defense device thus provides all of the deterrent means whichwould normally be desired by a law enforcement officer in hand to handsituations in a single device, which will find great favor among lawenforcement officers and others who have need of such versatility in asingle device.

[0066] It is to be understood that the present invention is not limitedto the embodiment described above, but encompasses any and allembodiments within the scope of the following claims.

I claim:
 1. A personal defense device, comprising: an elongated,electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generally cylindrical, hollowtube having a handle end and an electrical discharge end opposite saidhandle end; first and second electrodes extending from said electricaldischarge end of said tube; electrical circuitry disposed within saidtube, for increasing voltage to a high level for selectively producingan electrical discharge of stunning intensity from said electrodes; andat least one electrically non-conducting, rigid, elongate impact ribprojecting from said tube and extending from a point adjacent saidelectrical discharge end of said tube toward said handle end of saidtube.
 2. The personal defense device according to claim 1, furtherincluding a shallow metal blade removably attached to said at least oneimpact rib and projecting radially therefrom.
 3. The personal defensedevice according to claim 1, further including lighting means disposedin said tube for providing illumination, said lighting means furtherhaving means for projecting light radially from said tube.
 4. Thepersonal defense device according to claim 1, wherein said electricalcircuitry comprises flex circuitry.
 5. The personal defense deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein said electrical circuitry comprisesredundant dual circuits.
 6. The personal defense device according toclaim 1, further including: a master switch controlling said electricalcircuitry for selectively producing the electrical discharge; and anormally closed, momentary contact switch disposed in series with saidelectrical circuitry, whereby release of said momentary contact switchactivates said electrical circuitry for selectively producing theelectrical discharge, when said master switch is on.
 7. The personaldefense device according to claim 1, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material.
 8. A personal defense device, comprising:an elongated, electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generallycylindrical, hollow tube having a handle end and an electrical dischargeend opposite said handle end; first and second electrodes extending fromsaid electrical discharge end of said tube; and redundant, dual flexelectrical circuitry disposed within said tube, for increasing voltageto a high level for selectively producing an electrical discharge ofstunning intensity from said electrodes.
 9. The personal defense deviceaccording to claim 8, further including at least one electricallynon-conducting, rigid, elongate impact rib projecting from said tube andextending from a point adjacent said electrical discharge end of saidtube toward said handle end of said tube.
 10. The personal defensedevice according to claim 9, further including a shallow metal bladeremovably attached to said at least one impact rib and projectingradially therefrom.
 11. The personal defense device according to claim8, further including lighting means disposed in said tube for providingillumination, said lighting means further having means for projectinglight radially from said tube.
 12. The personal defense device accordingto claim 8, further including: a master switch controlling saidelectrical circuitry for selectively producing the electrical discharge;and a normally closed, momentary contact switch disposed in series withsaid electrical circuitry, whereby release of said momentary contactswitch activates said electrical circuitry for selectively producing theelectrical discharge, when said master switch is on.
 13. The personaldefense device according to claim 8, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material.
 14. A personal defense device, comprising:an elongated, electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generallycylindrical, hollow tube having a handle end and an electrical dischargeend opposite said handle end; first and second electrodes extending fromsaid electrical discharge end of said tube; electrical circuitrydisposed within said tube, for increasing voltage to a high level forselectively producing an electrical discharge of stunning intensity fromsaid electrodes; a master switch controlling said electrical circuitryfor selectively producing the electrical discharge; and a normallyclosed, momentary contact switch disposed in series with said electricalcircuitry, whereby release of said momentary contact switch activatessaid electrical circuitry for selectively producing the electricaldischarge, when said master switch is on.
 15. The personal defensedevice according to claim 14, further including at least oneelectrically non-conducting, rigid, elongate impact rib projecting fromsaid tube and extending from a point adjacent said electrical dischargeend of said tube toward said handle end of said tube.
 16. The personaldefense device according to claim 15, further including a shallow metalblade removably attached to said at least one impact rib and projectingradially therefrom.
 17. The personal defense device according to claim14, further including lighting means disposed in said tube for providingillumination, said lighting means further having means for projectinglight radially from said tube.
 18. The personal defense device accordingto claim 14, wherein said electrical circuitry comprises flex circuitry.19. The personal defense device according to claim 14, wherein saidelectrical circuitry comprises redundant dual circuits.
 20. The personaldefense device according to claim 14, wherein said tube is formed of asynthetic composite material. 32